Zach Gibson of Lisle Having Fun in 'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels' at Wheaton Drama
Zach Gibson of Lisle is bringing his energy and enthusiasm to “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”, the Tony nominated musical comedy that will close Wheaton Drama's 2011-2012 season with fun and laughter.
Based on the movie of the same name, “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” sees con men Freddy Benson and Lawrence Jameson competing on the French Riviera.
Mr. Gibson describes the show as “a musical about the common human dream we all share: Having everything we've ever wanted. Of course, it involves lying, cheating, and shameful acts that only true cons can pull off...and BOY are they good in this show. It will have you in fits of laughter from beginning to end. And there's even a moment for you sappy people, too!”
Zach is playing Freddy, who he notes is “a not-so-bright con artist who generally has one thing on his mind: winning.” Freddy is, Zach says, “friend (and opponent) to Lawrence (played by Rob Reinalda), the older, wiser con man.”
For Zach, who works as a service coordinator for adults and kids with disabilities, playing a character very different from himself is exciting. “I am generally friendly and outgoing and love making people smile. Freddy can be a jerk at times, and as I said, he is ALWAYS interested in winning...no matter what it takes.” Zach and Freddy do have some commonalities: “Freddy has characteristics similar to me in that he can be crazy at times and is really blunt with his interactions with others.”
While in character as Freddy, Zach focuses on the excitement of the con. Offstage, Zach doesn't take, but gives - by helping those around him. Zach has run lights and sound, helped sew buttons on costumes, and worked on set construction and decoration crews at Wheaton Drama. He is also on the committee for the theater's annual awards, the Colbys.
Zach's musical stage time at the Playhouse has included appearances in “The Drowsy Chaperone” and “1776”.
Elsewhere, Zach's favorite musical experiences have included appearances as Schroeder in “You're A Good Man Charlie Brown”, Richard in “A New Brain”, and Freddy Eynsford-Hill in “My Fair Lady”. He most recently concluded a run of “The Boys Next Door” as Jack, also a favorite.
While he has performed in musicals and straight plays, Zach says that there is something special about musicals. “…musicals do have an extra draw for me. I love performing through song. I think music has the ability to make the audience genuinely happy, and it really helps leave a lasting impression.”
Having been involved with Wheaton Drama musicals before was part of what drew Zach to “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”. “I have participated in musicals at Wheaton Drama in the past and have found them to be wonderful experiences! Knowing the show was a HOOT and that the group is amazing? What more could I ask for?!”
Being a fan of the “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” movie was also was a factor in Zach auditioning. “I think that the musical captures all of the hilariously inappropriate moments of the awesome movie. It does a wonderful job of still giving us the development of all the characters. It just gives us a little more pizzazz with its amazing score and libretto!”
Working on the “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” music has been a part of the rehearsal process that Zach has especially enjoyed. “Thus far in the process, I have to say that vocal rehearsals have been my favorite portion. There's just something about hearing ‘No, I need it to be cheesier. I need to feel the 80s pop ballad pouring from your body' that makes me laugh.”
Theater is not only fun for Zach, but offers a great outlet. “I enjoy theatre because it gives me time to be silly, to let down all inhibitions and really just PLAY. It gives me the opportunity to connect with some very talented and hilarious people (most of whom I'm lucky enough to call friends.) Most of all, theatre is a community, allowing everyone to contribute to (what we hope will be) a stellar show experience for everyone involved!”
His “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” involvement is offering the play, the talent, and the community that he likes, and he is expanding his theatre circle by working with new people. “I think being part of a musical with a small cast (13 in total) is always an interesting experience. You really get the chance to get to know one another and bond, as we're all participating in so much of the show.”
Zach hopes that audiences will also participate, by enjoying the work done by those involved with “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”. “People should see this show”, he says, “because it is hysterical”. He grins as he says, “The cast ain't bad, either!”
Performances of “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” are May 25 through June 17. Shows are Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 3pm. Tickets are $18 for Thursdays; $21 for Fridays-Sundays. Tickets are available at http://www.wheatondrama.org, or by calling 630-260-1820.
“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” has book by Jeffrey Lane and music and lyrics by David Yazbek. Music Theatre International licenses the show. “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” contains some comedic adult language and themes.
Wheaton Drama's 2012-2013 season is set to include “The Heiress”, “The Sound of Music”, “Sherlock Holmes: The Final Adventure”, “Full Circle”, and “Into the Woods”. Special additional productions include the children's show “Hansel and Gretel”, “Broadway Ballot”- a musical revue, and a classic Christmas show (more details to come).
At play since 1931, Wheaton Drama's productions are staged at Playhouse 111, 111 N. Hale Street in downtown Wheaton. Visit http://www.wheatondrama.org for more information and show tickets.